Calculating Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) by simply dividing total sales and marketing expenses by the number of new customers can be misleading as it overlooks the nuances of different channels and strategies. A blended CAC may hide inefficiencies and profitable channels, making it crucial to adopt a more segmented approach by analyzing costs specific to each marketing channel, funnel stage, and customer cohort. A comprehensive CAC calculation should include not just direct program and campaign expenses but also salaries, benefits, and overhead costs associated with the sales and marketing teams, as well as tools and technology expenses. Understanding the CAC in conjunction with metrics like Customer Lifetime Value (LTV) and the CAC Payback Period provides deeper insights into the financial health and growth potential of a business. Avoiding common pitfalls such as mismatched time windows and overlooking hidden costs can transform CAC into a reliable tool for strategic decision-making, ultimately fostering sustainable growth.